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October 06, 2022 | Cat

What is Cat Flu? A Guide to Influenza in Cats

What is cat flu?

Cat flu, just like human flu, is a common illness at this time of year affecting the upper respiratory tract of our feline friends. It can be either bacterial or viral in origin.

What are the symptoms of cat flu?

The signs of cat flu are pretty much the same as with human flu: runny eyes, sore throat, stiff muscles and joints, sneezing, a fever and dribbling. Their voices may also sound different due to the inflammation in the throat.

Some cats, especially kittens, can develop eye ulcers with it too, leading to potentially serious damage to the eyes.

What causes cat flu?

Approximately 80% of cat flu cases are caused by one or both of two viruses: Feline Herpes Virus (FHV) & Feline Calicivirus (FCV). Bacterial agents are a less common, but do include Bordetella Bronchiseptica – which also causes Kennel Cough in dogs.

How does cat flu spread?

Cat flu is spread by infected cats shedding virus particles in their saliva, their nasal discharges and their ocular (eye) discharges and these particles are then inhaled by a previously uninfected cat. The virus can survive in the environment for a week, hence transmission can be caused by the sharing of food bowls and bedding, for example.

Is cat flu more dangerous to younger cats / kittens?

Yes. Cat flu tends to affect young cats and kitten more severely and also those cats with underlying health issues such as diabetes. Some infected cats may go on to become “carriers” of the virus – so appear healthy on the outside, but they continue to shed the virus, infecting other cats.

What cat flu treatment options are available?

Whatever the cause of the cat flu, treatment options are pretty much the same, and largely consist of supportive treatment.

Drinking water

Mouth ulcers and blocked up noses may stop a cat from eating and drinking and so dehydration is a real concern.

Aromatic Foods

He or she may also have lost their sense of smell and taste, and so really appealing, strong smelling foods such as chicken, or pilchards should be used to try and tempt them. We stock specialist “recovery” products too which work well, such as : Royal Canin Rcw Recovery Cans & Oralade GI Support.

Saline solution

The eyes and nose of the poorly cat should be regularly wiped using a mild saline solution (a teaspoon of salt in 1 pint of lukewarm water).

Steam Therapy

Steam therapy is also a good idea – so shut your cat into a steamy bathroom after you’ve had a shower – always provide a bowl of water in case they get thirsty.

Antibiotics

In serious cases of cat flu, antibiotics may be prescribed by your vet.

Is there a cat flu vaccine?

Yes! The good news is that there is a vaccine, but as with our own “flu jabs”, they may not be 100% effective, depending on the particular strains of the virus doing the rounds. After the initial course of injections as a kitten, annual top ups are required and essential if your cat ever “holidays” at a cattery.

When should I take my cat to the vet if I think it has cat flu?

If you suspect that your cat or kitten may be showing signs of cat flu, a visit to the vets is strongly advised so that prompt treatment can be given.

You can speak to a vet at PocketVet today for expert, tailored advice.